Mark Robins is backing his latest Coventry City kid on the block to become a future star at the club.

The Sky Blues boss described Morgan Williams ’s big league debut as “absolutely immense” after watching the teenager come through a baptism of fire as he stood up to experienced Fleetwood Town campaigner Ched Evans.

Asked about the Cod Army striker’s dark art tactics against the youngster, Robins said: “Evans was trying but that was the impressive thing about Morgan, that he has come through some unbelievable challenges.

“He’s game; he’s 19 years of age and he’s played in men’s football, which is why we signed him because Steve Taylor had pointed him out at Mickleover.

Morgan Williams on his impressive Coventry City league debut

“He’s just a great lad. He talks a lot and is not frightened or overawed and is a great kid.

“And I was really, really pleased for him because he deserves that for the work that he puts in and the quality or person he is and quality of player he is as well.”

Williams, who signed for City last summer from non-league Mickleover via the V9 Academy, was pitched in for his League One debut due to injuries to Jordan Willis and Dom Hyam, having previously featured three times for the first team in the Checkatrade Trophy earlier in the season.

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Asked what the experience will do for the lad’s confidence, Robins said: “I said to him that there’s only one way for him now and that’s down.

“They were all laughing about it but in all seriousness he has got every chance of being a top, top player for us for many years to come.

“He is just a great kid.”

Williams was struggling in the last ten minutes, Robins revealing he was feeling the effects of a combination of issues.

“I think he had a knock but I think it was a knock, a bit of cramp and a stamp on his foot – that kind of thing because he got his foot through it a few times and sent it down the line and kept it in as well.

“And he ended up getting his knee or shin caught so we’re hoping he is OK.

“But he’s young and resilient and will bounce back quicker than the older players, I would imagine.”

Morgan Williams earned a warm ovation from Sky Blues fans when he went off, replaced by Jack Grimmer

Going off in the 83rd minute and replaced by full-back Jack Grimmer, who went on as a makeshift centre-half, Williams was given a standing ovation from the home fans at the Ricoh Arena – a gesture that the manager was delighted to see following Friday night’s flak aimed at goalkeeper Lee Burge.

“That is what you need,” said Robins.

“When we talk about sticking together that’s great to see because that’s us as a club and I really appreciate that.

“We have to appreciate where we are as a club and the fact that these young kids are getting opportunities.”